Real Madrid coach Alvaro Arbeloa has confessed that the club’s ongoing contract standoff with Vinicius Junior is completely out of his hands.
Vinicius’ future at Madrid have been under the spotlight for the past months as various report claim he’s not happy in Spain. The Brazilian contract renewal talks frozen since last summer, a move that have caught the attention of Saudi Arabia clubs.
The forward’s representatives are currently in the capital, yet fresh speculation over a lucrative exit refuses to disappear.
When pressed on whether he could influence the situation, Arbeloa offered a candid admission of his limitations.
Vinicius Junior celebrates with Alvaro Arbeloa after scoring a goal for Madrid. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
The former full-back made it clear that while his desire is to keep Vinicius, the negotiations are being handled far above his pay grade.
“It’s not up to me, it’s a matter for the club and the player,” Arbeloa told the press, distancing himself from the boardroom politics. However, he did not hide his admiration for the player, adding: “Of course, I hope he continues to make history here.”
Arbeloa also faced questions regarding potential reinforcements this January transfer window. However, the Spanish tactician refused to demand new signings publicly, instead adopting an approach that relies heavily on the club’s internal resources.
Arbeloa said: “I have an extraordinary squad.”
“If anything is lacking, we have a great youth academy, as has always been the case in Real Madrid’s history.”
When pushed for a second time on whether he had requested backing from the board, Arbeloa shut down the line of questioning entirely. “I think it’s not a question that’s related to me, but I repeat, I believe I have an extraordinary squad.” It was a clear signal that the new boss intends to work with the tools at his disposal rather than looking for external solutions.
